YANGON, March 30: Myanmar’s military leader Min Aung Hlaing has been nominated for the presidency as the country’s parliament convened on Monday, following a general election from which major opposition parties were excluded.
Min Aung Hlaing is widely expected to be formally elected, as he was nominated alongside two close loyalists who are considered unlikely challengers.
The military chief has faced sanctions from several Western countries since leading the military coup five years ago that removed the elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.
Since the coup, Myanmar has been engulfed in civil conflict, with thousands killed and millions displaced. Large parts of the country remain under the control of armed resistance groups.
The general election, held between December and January, was presented by the junta as a step toward restoring peace and stability. However, critics described the vote as neither inclusive nor credible, noting that many popular political parties were barred from participating and several conflict-hit regions were unable to vote.
The military government has rejected such criticism, insisting that the election process was free and fair.
Reports indicate that nearly 90 percent of the members of the new parliament are loyal to Min Aung Hlaing, including military officers who hold constitutionally reserved seats and candidates from the military-backed political party.
Parliament is expected to spend the week debating the presidential appointment, though Min Aung Hlaing’s selection is widely seen as certain.
Under Myanmar’s constitution, he must step down as commander-in-chief if he assumes the presidency. His replacement is expected to be General Ye Win Oo, a close ally known for his hardline stance against dissidents.
The move marks a significant political development in Myanmar’s post-coup landscape, as the military leadership seeks to formalize its control through state institutions.
